Do You Want To Know What Actually Happens During A Tummy Tuck In Toronto?

By Jerome Edelstein, MD

One of the most common misconceptions among the many people considering a tummy tuck in Toronto is that it is a tool for weight loss. Contrary to popular belief, this is actually not the case – rather it is a highly effective body contouring procedure.

In order to truly understand what it can do for you and if it is the right means to reach your goals, it is a good starting point to know exactly what happens during the procedure.Also known as abdominoplasty, these procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. Although some patients have to stay overnight at the hospital, most are able to leave the same day and continue to rest and recover at home.In the first step, the area of the abdomen where excess skin and fat are to be removed from are outlined. Then, a horizontal incision is made just above the pubic line. The length of this incision will vary depending on the extent of work being performed. In the case of a full tummy tuck, this may be from hipbone to hipbone, whereas in a mini tummy tuck it may be considerably shorter.For a full tummy tuck, a second incision is also made around the belly button.

If the procedure is being combined with liposuction, this will be performed at the beginning of the procedure to make it more convenient for the surgeon to deal with the excess skin. Liposuction is typically used to remove excess fat above the belly button, while problem areas below the navel are treated by excision. Liposuction can also be combined with a tummy tuck to treat love handles or a muffin top in order to create a slimmer, more contoured midsection.Most Toronto tummy tuck patients are dealing with some degree of diastasis recti – a condition where the abdominal muscles have separated. This is particularly common following pregnancy and childbirth and presents itself as a stubborn lower abdominal pouch or potbelly.After liposuction has been performed, the skin flaps created by the incisions are lifted and the abdominal muscles are pulled together in order to tighten them back to their original location.

After the stomach muscles have been tightened, the remaining skin and fat are pulled down and re-draped to create a flatter tummy.

At the end of the procedure, the belly button is placed vertically to give a more youthful appearance to the abdominal area.After the procedure, you may or may not have drains placed under the lower abdominal surface. When used, the drains are an effective means to ensure that excess fluid does not build up inside. They are usually removed around a week following the procedure.At Edelstein Cosmetic, all patients undergoing a tummy tuck in Toronto are provided a comprehensive set of postoperative care instructions. When followed closely, patients can enjoy a smooth recovery and enjoy their new results for a lifetime.To book a consultation with Dr. Edelstein or Dr. Jindal, we welcome you to contact our plastic surgery clinic in Toronto.